Liverpool banks on city's year in spotlight

By Richard Smirke

LIVERPOOL (Billboard) - "Liverpool I left you, but I never let you down," a jubilant Ringo Starr sang as he performed at the launch party for his hometown's year as European Capital of Culture.

The spectacular January 11 concert in the city's center, which also featured Eurythmics' Dave Stewart and local alt-rock stars the Wombats, grabbed widespread media attention -- but some local music executives are concerned about what will be left behind in the city once the stars have moved on.

Being Capital of Culture "has really benefited Liverpool in that it's got a lot more people to invest in the town center," said Alan Wills, managing director of Liverpool-based label Deltasonic, home to local alternative acts the Zutons and the Coral. "But I don't know if culture has benefited at all."

Further celebrations are planned throughout 2008, with organizer Liverpool Culture Co. (LCC) estimating that the Capital of Culture title will attract an extra 2 million tourists and boost northwest England's economy by 100 million pounds ($197 million).

Musical highlights include Paul McCartney at the 35,000-capacity Anfield Stadium on June 1 and conductor Simon Rattle returning to his birthplace for a series of concerts in October and November. The city will also play host to the BBC Electric Proms in October and the MTV Europe Awards November 6. Local sources indicate that Capital of Culture status was a key factor in attracting both events.

But a series of high-profile spats and resignations at the LCC, including that of former artistic director Robyn Archer, have marred proceedings. Many close to Liverpool's music scene doubt the events' long-term impact on the city's creative industries.

LASTING EFFECT?

Wombats singer Matthew Murphy said the city's status as Capital of Culture is a "great thing," but he asks, "Are these tourists just going to come over and visit the Beatles Museums, or are they actually going to feel a part of the culture and go to live music venues?"